RUN disappointed at the Government’s response to the Base Funding Review

The Federal Government has failed to take a long-term view in its minimalist response to the Base Funding Review released on January 28, according to the Chair of the Regional Universities Network.

RUN Chair Professor David Battersby acknowledged there had been additional funding invested by the Government in higher education, but nonetheless expressed disappointment in the Government’s response.

“RUN welcomes the additional investment the Government has made in the sector, including via improved indexation, and is mindful of the difficult fiscal environment. However, it is a pity that, given the significant investment of time and effort put into the review, a more comprehensive response wasn’t made,” Professor Battersby said.

“The review panel undertook an exhaustive process of consultation and research. They found that the current funding clusters no longer reflect the costs of delivery of teaching, scholarship and base research capabilities in all disciplines. Some areas of underfunding were identified for particular disciplines.

“While further additional funding in the current environment presents a challenge, the fundamental issues identified by the review deserve a more reflective response. The Government could have proposed further consideration of these issues in the longer term, particularly after the demand driven system has operated for a few years,” Professor Battersby said.